KAMPALA, UGANDA — Today was meant to mark the 4th anniversary of the National Unity Platform (NUP) Party, following its rebranding from the National Unity Reconciliation Party (NURP). However, celebrations were overshadowed by a heavy military and police presence around the party’s headquarters.
Police Action and Arrests
Upon arrival at the party headquarters, our leaders and comrades were met with a significant police and military presence. The authorities did not provide any written justification for blocking our scheduled press conference. Several prominent members were arrested, including:
Dr. Lina Zedriga Waru, Deputy President for Northern Uganda
Hon. Zaake Francis, MP for Mityana Municipality and Youth Wing leader
Hon. Charles Tebandeke, MP for Baale County
Hon. Hassan Kirumira, MP for Katikamu South
Details of the Arrests
Hon. Zaake Francis was forcibly removed from his vehicle and taken to Central Police Station (CPS). As of now, his condition remains unconfirmed as his contacts have gone silent.
Dr. Lina Zedriga was briefly detained following a scuffle and later released by Wandegeya DPC Hassan Hiwumbire.
Hon. Charles Tebandeke was apprehended and transported in a security drone.
Hon. Hassan Kirumira was forcibly removed and thrown into the seats of a police patrol truck.
Additionally, several comrades observing from the party offices were picked up by the Joint Anti-Terrorism Taskforce (JAT) and military personnel.
Police Silence
Despite the illegal detentions, the police have yet to issue a legally valid statement to justify their actions. This lack of transparency further exacerbates concerns about the rule of law and accountability.
NUP and Presidential Position on #March2Parliament
It is important to clarify that the National Unity Platform did not organize the #March2Parliament protests scheduled for July 23. However, we fully support the protests, as we are committed to #PeoplePower and firmly believe in the power of the people. We endorse every effort to challenge injustice, corruption, and misrule.
President Museveni’s administration has attempted to mischaracterize the protests as an NUP initiative to undermine our credibility and portray it as a partisan issue. In his press briefing today from Magere, Wakiso District, the President stated:
“I support the young people 100% and am glad to see them leading from the front. Don’t be surprised if you see me there with you. I didn’t organize this protest, but both I and the party support it.”
The regime’s efforts to suppress the protests and misrepresent them as a partisan action will not deter the movement. The #AntiCorruptionProtests are a testament to the unity and determination of Uganda’s youth, transcending age, religion, tribe, and political affiliation. Despite the regime’s attempts to stifle these efforts, we remain resolute in our support for the fight against corruption and misrule.
